June 24, 2016

Let’s take a look at something that we don’t feel like gets talked about enough. Gum (periodontal) disease is a serious condition that has major repercussions when it’s left untreated. Unfortunately, it’s estimated that 75 percent of adults are suffering from some level of the condition. Are you one of the majority at higher risk for tooth loss, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer due to the gum infection? Learn about gum disease in Orange Park FL, including its symptoms, treatment, and prevention, today.

How To Spot Gum Disease

It’s not difficult to identify periodontal disease. But because its symptoms are often painless in the beginning, the condition often goes ignored until it reaches its later stages. By that point, treatment is often more difficult — and tooth loss may be imminent.

Here are some of the warning signs associated with gum disease.

Red, swollen, tender gums

Bleeding gums

Gum recession

Persistent bad breath

Increased tooth sensitivity

Older adults, tobacco users, and people suffering from conditions that weaken the immune system are at an especially high risk for developing gum disease. Additionally, a temporary form of the disease is associated with pregnant women (known as “pregnancy gingivitis”).

How Gum Disease Is Treated

Once the condition has been identified, your gum disease treatment will depend on the severity of the infection. In its earliest stages, the condition can be reversed with increased attention at home and a few extra visits to the dentist in Orange Park FL. Later, non-surgical scaling and root planing (also known as a “deep cleaning”) works by removing plaque and bacteria above and below the gum line. Once it’s reached advanced stages, surgical treatment from a periodontist may be necessary to treat periodontal disease.

Gum Disease Prevention

The good news is that gum disease prevention is fairly simple with a good dental hygiene routine. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, make sure you’re brushing gently for two minutes, at least twice a day. Brushing after each meal is beneficial for patients at an increased risk of gum disease. Daily flossing removes the bacteria and food particles your toothbrush leaves behind.

In addition to solid brushing and flossing, you should complement your at-home routine with a visit to the dentist every six months for preventive dental care. When you do, your dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar buildup that cause cavities and gum disease, and your dentist will check for early signs of the condition.

Questions? Need Gum Disease Treatment? Contact Us Today!

When was your last dental cleaning in Orange Park FL? Don’t forget that preventive care is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you’ve got questions regarding your gum health, or if you suspect you may have gum disease, please contact Dr. Nawrocki’s office today! You can also reach us at (904) 602-8396.